Description of the measure

Currently, to qualify for a CSHC a person must have adjusted taxable income below the relevant annual income thresholds. These are $50,000 for singles, $80,000 for couples, combined, or $100,000 for a couple separated by respite care, illness, or when one member of the couple is in prison. These thresholds will increase with indexation.

The additional dependent child amount will not be indexed.

The higher income threshold rates will allow more people to qualify for a CSHC.

Questions and answers

Who will be affected by this measure?

Australian residents who are over age pension age and who are not receiving a Social Security pension or benefit.

Am I eligible for this measure?

To be eligible for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card a person must meet the following criteria:

not be receiving a Social Security pension or Social Security benefit

not receiving a Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) Service pension, DVA Age Pension or an Income Support Supplement or hold a DVA CSHC

be an Australian resident, residing in Australia at the time of claim or re-claim